The Lesedi Mabiletja's appointment has sparked debate about leadership standards and the importance of qualifications in government roles. Image: Supplied Via Daily Maverick.
(The Post News) – The appointment of 22-year-old Lesedi Mabiletja at the Department of Social Development has quietly raised questions about whether experience and qualifications are being properly considered for key roles. This follows the promotion of the 22-year-old as Minister Sisisi Tolashe’s Chief of Staff in the Department of Social Development.
According to media reports, before Mabiletja’s appointment as Chief of Staff, Human Resources had already raised concerns about her fitness for the role she previously held. They noted that she did not meet the educational qualifications or the required level of experience.
Despite these concerns, the appointment moved forward, prompting unease within the department. This situation highlights the challenges of maintaining leadership standards in important public offices and raises questions about how such decisions affect the trust people place in government institutions.
Shortly after her promotion, Mabiletja was quietly removed from the chief of staff role but remains employed within the department. She has returned to her previous position as Minister Sisisi Tolashe’s private secretary, the same role she held before her promotion.
Mabiletja’s Appointment Highlights Leadership Challenges
In addition to Mabiletja’s appointment, the department has experienced other leadership changes, including shifts within its communications team. These adjustments suggest a period of transition, where internal decisions may be reshaping how the department operates behind the scenes.
As the department moves forward, Mabiletja’s appointment highlights the need for clear standards and careful consideration in senior appointments. In roles that carry public responsibility, experience and transparency remain essential to building trust and serving communities with integrity.
Please share your thoughts contact Thembeka via email: Journalist-thembeka@thepostnews.net
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